MARUDI (Nov 10) – The much-awaited Marudi Bridge has officially opened today, providing a vital new link for the people of Baram, especially Marudi. The RM116.5 million project, which has been years in the making, was inaugurated by Datuk Aidel Lariwoo, the Deputy Minister for Infrastructure and Port Development, marking a significant milestone in the region’s infrastructure development.
The new bridge is set to replace the ferry services that had long been a lifeline for the people traveling between Marudi and other parts of Baram. With its completion, residents and visitors can now enjoy more efficient and reliable road travel, cutting down the dependency on ferry services.
In his speech, Datuk Aidel highlighted the bridge’s role as a catalyst for future developments in the Baram region. “The opening of this bridge is just the beginning. We will be building more roads and infrastructure that will spur socio-economic growth in Baram,” he said, adding that the state government’s plans include a new road linking Miri to Marudi.
The road from Eastwood Golf and Country Club in Miri to Marudi Bridge is set to begin construction soon. Spanning 42 kilometers, it will shorten the travel distance by 20 kilometers, offering a more direct route for those traveling between Miri and Marudi. The new road will be built to R5 standards, ensuring better quality and durability.
In addition, other major infrastructure projects are in the pipeline, including a tar-sealed road from Marudi Bridge to Kuala Melinau in Mulu, and a new 26-kilometer stretch from Long Panai to Long Lama. The Sabah-Sarawak Link Road Phase Two will also connect Mulu to Nanga Medamit in Limbang, covering 161 kilometers. These projects are part of the government’s plans under the 15th Malaysian Plan (15MP) and are expected to be completed within the next five years.
Marudi Assemblyman Datuk Dr Penguang Manggil welcomed the new bridge, saying it would make travel easier for those coming to Marudi from Miri and beyond. He also spoke about other upcoming projects, including the development of a waterfront in Marudi, improved road connectivity, and even a new hotel in the Marudi Bazaar.
“The Marudi Bridge is a game-changer for Baram, and we are just getting started,” he said.
Also present at the soft launch were Datuk Gerawat Gala, Deputy Minister in the Premier’s Department, Datuk Anyi Ngau, Baram MP, and Datuk Dennis Ngau, the Telang Usan Assemblyman.